A POLICE cadet project is to be expanded, which will see the creation of 18 new posts next year.

Northumbria Police’s volunteer cadet scheme is for youngsters age 14 to 15 across the region to learn more about the police force, as well as work on their Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.

After completing initial training in 2012, the cadet program is now going to be rolled out in 2013 and made available for further recruits.

The announcement was made during a presentation given by three cadets at a meeting of Newcastle City Council.

The youngsters explained to the meeting about the work they have been carrying out across the community, and they were thanked for their efforts by Chief Constable Sue Sim and Northumbria’s new Police and Crime Commissioner Vera Baird.

Coun Henri Murison also praised the young recruits for their work in the city.

More than 300 people applied for the cadet scheme when it opened to youngsters in 2012.

Those selected had to pass an interview – as well as security vetting – and started their training at police stations in May.